Introduction

This chapter introduces international judicial governance as both a domain of international institutional law and a fledgling academic discipline centred on the institutions, practices, and norms through which collectives of states or international organizations exercise governance functions in relation to international courts and tribunals. Competent judicial governance by the relevant international institutions (injugovins) is an essential precondition for these courts to discharge their mandates independently, accountably, and effectively. The chapter underscores the importance of the theme of international judicial governance, contrasting it with the long-standing neglect of this subject in international legal scholarship. It emphasizes the urgency of sustained attention to this area of law and practice, particularly in light of the unprecedented enforcement challenges and politicized attacks currently confronting several international courts. Finally, it outlines the book’s approach, aims, and structure, providing a preview of the individual chapters.